Research

In August US midcap equity markets turned in a gain as investors hoped for some uptick in consumer spending as energy prices
continued to retreat. Commodity prices declined in sympathy with energy and concerns over the viability of Fannie Mae and
Freddie Mac and credit market turmoil also continued.

In July, Mid Cap stocks saw increased volatility as energy stocks retreated over 20%. Share prices slumped for the first half of the month and then, led by a bounce in the financials, moved higher in fits and starts, only to meet with selling pressure again on the last day of the month.

After a strong rally in April and May, the equity markets sold off sharply in June as investors focused on both rising unemployment and commodity prices, especially oil, and as it became more apparent that the global financial system faces an extended period of deleveraging.

After a strong rally in April and May, the equity markets sold off sharply in June as investors focused on both rising unemployment and commodity prices, especially oil, and as it became more apparent that the global financial system faces an extended period of deleveraging.

US equity markets moved higher in May in spite of higher energy prices, inflation fears and continued questions about the health of the domestic economy.